26519, Albright, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26519, Albright, West Virginia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.98 percent of the residents in 26519 has some form of health insurance. 46.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.40 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 26519 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 275 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 24 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26519. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 395 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,894 health care providers accessible to residents in 26519, Albright, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26519 and Albright, WV

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP code 26519, encompassing Albright, West Virginia, requires a multi-faceted approach. A "Hypertension Score" would ideally assess the area's capacity to effectively manage and treat hypertension, a prevalent and serious health concern. This analysis will delve into factors impacting this score, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive hypertension care.

The foundation of a good Hypertension Score lies in physician accessibility. The physician-to-patient ratio in 26519, and specifically within Albright, is a critical data point. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can significantly hinder timely access to care, leading to delayed diagnoses and less effective management of hypertension. Data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine, combined with population estimates for the area, is essential to determine this ratio. Furthermore, the specific types of physicians available are important. While primary care physicians (PCPs) are the cornerstone of hypertension management, the availability of cardiologists, endocrinologists, and nephrologists for specialized care and consultation is equally important.

Within Albright, the availability of primary care is paramount. A robust primary care presence is vital for early detection, ongoing monitoring, and patient education related to hypertension. The number of primary care practices within the town, their patient capacity, and their acceptance of various insurance plans (including Medicare and Medicaid) directly impact accessibility. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments further enhance accessibility and contribute positively to the Hypertension Score.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. Practices demonstrating a commitment to best practices in hypertension management would receive high marks. This includes practices that adhere to evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, routinely monitor blood pressure, offer patient education programs on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, and stress management), and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress and facilitate communication. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives related to hypertension management, such as those promoted by the American Heart Association or the American Medical Association, would also be considered exemplary.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Albright. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations for hypertension management, including remote blood pressure monitoring and virtual follow-up appointments, can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telemedicine platforms, the ease of use for patients, and the integration of telemedicine data into EHRs are all factors influencing the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine can also bridge the gap for patients who face transportation barriers or live in remote locations, ensuring they receive timely care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in hypertension management, but they are critically important. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, and addressing these issues is an integral part of comprehensive care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the area is a significant factor. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their hypertension management protocols, or that have mental health professionals on staff, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care and contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. The ability to connect patients with mental health resources, especially in a rural setting, can be a significant advantage.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources that support healthy lifestyles is important. This includes access to affordable healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity (e.g., walking trails, community fitness programs), and support groups for individuals with hypertension. Practices that collaborate with community organizations to promote these resources demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and contribute to a higher Hypertension Score.

The analysis of insurance acceptance is also vital. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, ensure that more residents have access to care. The availability of financial assistance programs for uninsured or underinsured patients also contributes to the overall accessibility of care.

The overall infrastructure of the healthcare system in 26519 also plays a role. This includes the presence of hospitals, pharmacies, and diagnostic facilities. The proximity of these facilities to Albright residents impacts the ease of access to care. A well-coordinated healthcare system, where primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers work collaboratively, contributes to better patient outcomes and a higher Hypertension Score.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for ZIP code 26519, and specifically Albright, is a complex metric reflecting the interplay of numerous factors. Physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and community support all contribute to the ability of the area to effectively manage and treat hypertension. A comprehensive assessment requires detailed data collection and analysis, taking into account all of the factors mentioned above. This analysis highlights the crucial elements influencing the effectiveness of hypertension management in the area.

To visualize this complex data and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility in 26519 and Albright, consider exploring the power of interactive mapping. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and visually compelling representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability.